Kylian Mbappe ‘has passed’ Zinedine Zidane but Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ still needs to achieve three more things to end France GOAT debate for good

Kylian Mbappé ‘Has Passed’ Zinedine Zidane But Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ Still Needs to Achieve Three More Things to End France GOAT Debate for Good

Kylian Mbappé’s meteoric rise in world football has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 25 years old, the French superstar has already collected accolades that many could only dream of during an entire career. With a World Cup title, multiple Ligue 1 titles, and a growing legacy in both domestic and international football, Mbappé has established himself as one of the most electrifying players of his generation. But as his star continues to shine, comparisons to his country’s footballing royalty, notably Zinedine Zidane, have become inevitable.

Zidane is a name that has resonated in the football world for decades, both as a player and a coach. His graceful skill, his leadership on the biggest stages, and his World Cup-winning heroics in 1998 have immortalized him as one of the greatest French players of all time. Yet, as Mbappé nears his prime, the debate has begun: has the young forward surpassed the legend of Zidane, or does he still have a long way to go?

According to many experts and pundits, Mbappé’s recent achievements have already placed him ahead of Zidane in terms of sheer output. With his sensational performances in club football, his ability to carry France to the 2022 World Cup final, and his consistently dazzling displays for Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé has surpassed Zidane in several metrics — most notably goals scored and individual accolades.

But the debate doesn’t end there. To truly claim the title of France’s greatest footballer, there are still hurdles that Mbappé must clear. Despite his brilliance, Zidane’s career still holds weight for many fans and critics. So, what must Mbappé do to firmly end the “GOAT” debate and cement his legacy as the ultimate French footballer?

1. Win a Ballon d’Or

Zidane’s most crowning individual achievement came in 1998 when he won the Ballon d’Or after leading France to their first World Cup victory on home soil. The Golden Ball is the highest individual accolade a footballer can earn, and while Mbappé has been in the conversation for years, he has yet to secure one for himself.

While his World Cup heroics and consistent performances for PSG have made him a contender, he has yet to capture the coveted title. The Ballon d’Or is not only a recognition of individual brilliance but also an acknowledgment of dominance on the world stage. If Mbappé can continue his trajectory and deliver on the grandest stages—most notably for France in international tournaments and for PSG in the Champions League—he could finally add this prestigious trophy to his list of accomplishments, completing his case as the GOAT.

2. Conquer Europe with Real Madrid

Zidane’s place in history is partly tied to his time at Real Madrid, where he became a key figure in one of the most dominant club eras in football history. Zidane was part of the famed Galacticos—alongside the likes of Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, and Luis Figo—and played a pivotal role in helping the club secure the UEFA Champions League in 2002. The iconic volley against Bayer Leverkusen remains one of the most unforgettable moments in football history.

Mbappé has long been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and many consider it the next logical step in his career. A move to the Spanish giants would give him the platform to cement his legacy in European football. Winning the Champions League with Real Madrid would elevate him to a level that even Zidane would have to admire. Though Mbappé is already a proven winner in domestic football, conquering Europe with one of the biggest clubs in the world would undoubtedly help him put a stamp on the conversation surrounding the greatest French player.

3. Lead France to Another World Cup Victory

While Mbappé’s performance in the 2022 World Cup was nothing short of legendary, falling short in a penalty shootout against Argentina left a bitter taste for many. To claim the mantle of France’s greatest footballer, he needs to help his nation reclaim the World Cup trophy and repeat the success of 1998. Zidane’s influence on France’s 1998 triumph solidified his status as a national hero, and a similar feat from Mbappé, particularly by leading the team to another title, would go a long way in securing his place at the top of French football.

If Mbappé can deliver yet another World Cup victory, this time with even more experience under his belt, he will not only match Zidane’s legacy but potentially surpass it. The World Cup is the ultimate test of a player’s ability to perform on the highest stage, and Mbappé’s opportunity to become a two-time champion could cement his status as the best player France has ever produced.

Conclusion

While Kylian Mbappé has undeniably passed Zinedine Zidane in many respects, the debate surrounding the greatest French footballer of all time is far from over. Mbappé’s achievements are impressive, but to truly end the GOAT debate once and for all, he must claim the Ballon d’Or, conquer Europe with Real Madrid, and lead France to another World Cup. The journey may still have some way to go, but with his prodigious talent, hunger, and dedication, there’s no telling just how far Mbappé can go. If he achieves these next milestones, the footballing world may one day refer to him not only as the greatest French player of all time but as one of the finest footballers the world has ever seen.